Algiers – The Algerian government is moving forward with plans to revitalize key infrastructure projects aimed at connecting several major ports to the East-West Highway. This initiative seeks to improve the flow of goods and people, while also reducing congestion in coastal cities.
Minister of Public Works and Basic Infrastructure, Abdelkader Djellaoui, announced the renewed commitment during a session at the Council of the Nation on Thursday. He stated that the necessary administrative procedures are underway to relaunch road projects connecting ports, including those in Ténès and Skikda, to the strategic East-West Highway after years of stalled progress.
Specifically addressing the Ténès port connection, a 54-kilometer project, Djellaoui explained that it is divided into two sections. The first section spans 22 kilometers from Bouzgaya to the East-West Highway near Oued Sly, while the second covers the 32-kilometer stretch between the Port of Ténès and Bouzgaya.
Work on the first section, originally awarded to an Algerian-Portuguese consortium, was halted after reaching 52% completion. The contract was terminated on February 11, 2025, due to the consortium’s failure to meet its contractual obligations and financial difficulties.
Algérienne des Autoroutes (Algeria Highways) is now managing the administrative and legal processes to restart the project and complete the remaining work. The specifications have been reviewed by the Sectoral Commission for Public Procurement, and remaining observations are being addressed before a call for tenders is issued in the coming days.
The initial phase of the section, covering 10 kilometers up to Ouled Fares, will commence as soon as construction companies are selected. According to the Minister, the remaining budget is sufficient to complete this part. Administrative procedures for awarding the remaining section will begin after a re-evaluation of the project, based on available financial resources.
Regarding the second section, the Directorate of Public Works for the Chlef Province is conducting a technical study, with 90% completion. The study is expected to be finalized in the first half of 2026. Once the study is approved and the final project cost is determined, a proposal will be submitted to register the construction work.
